Module M12 - Introduction to GIS for the Purpose of Practicing PGIS

Unit M12U01 - Introduction to GIS

Introduction

Since 1995, local communities and organisations working with communities have been increasingly interested in using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). As a result, the use of GIS has evolved from a process that traditionally was practised solely by highly trained experts to one with a heightened capacity to be used by, and on behalf of, local communities and marginalised people. This shift has led to the development of a community of practice that is referred to as Participatory GIS (PGIS).

Because GIS can generate, manage, analyse and communicate spatial information, these tools have become a major conduit to documenting, expressing, presenting and protecting local spatial knowledge, including information related to land use and territory definition. However, in order to realise the benefits of GIS as a mechanism for community representation and empowerment, facilitators and community members need to understand the fundamental capabilities of these technologies.

Equipment needed

Beamer, computer and Internet connection for the trainer, computers with Internet connection for each trainee or for every two or three trainees (depending on local circumstances), QGIS manual, software installed on the computers